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ErrBase

What Does F20 Mean on a Whirlpool Washer?

Quick Answer

F20 is the older Whirlpool fault code for a fill timeout. It has the same root causes as the newer LF code: supply valves closed, low water pressure, clogged inlet valve screens, or a failed inlet valve solenoid. The diagnostic path is identical to LF.

F20 is the older Whirlpool fault code for a fill timeout. It has the same root causes as the newer LF code: supply valves closed, low water pressure, clogged inlet valve screens, or a failed inlet valve solenoid. The diagnostic path is identical to LF. Check supply valves first, then clean the inlet screens, then test the solenoid. The inlet valve WPW10346771 covers both F20 and LF on most VMW top-load models.

WhirlpoolWasherSeverity: moderate87% DIY Success
Time to Fix
15–55 min
Difficulty
beginner
Parts Cost
$30 – $55
Tools Needed
Multimeter, Needle-nose pliers
Wrong code?

Not seeing F20 on your display?

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no fill detected
MaytagF20

What Does the F20 Code Mean?

No water entered the tub. Identical to LF on newer models. Check supply valves and inlet screens first.

Most Likely Causes

Based on aggregated repair data, here is the probability breakdown for this error code:

Supply valve closed or partially closed (45%)40%
Clogged inlet valve screens (30%)24%
Pressure switch or hose fault (7%)22%
Failed inlet valve solenoid (18%)14%

Symptoms You May Notice

  • F20 displayed at start of cycle
  • Machine powers on, attempts to fill, then faults
  • No sound of water entering the tub
  • Tub remains dry throughout

Can you reset a Whirlpool washer to clear the F20 code?

Unplug for 60 seconds. After addressing the fill issue, plug back in and restart. F20 clears once the machine successfully senses water entering the tub.

Tools Required for Diagnosis

MultimeterNeedle-nose pliersFlat-head screwdriverTowels

Diagnostic Checklist

Follow these steps in order. We start with the easiest external fixes before opening up the machine.

1

Turn both hot and cold supply valves behind the machine

Turn both hot and cold supply valves behind the machine counterclockwise until fully open. Attempt a cold-only fill cycle to confirm water is entering.

2

Shut supply valves

3

Unplug washer

Replacement Parts

If your diagnostic testing proves the component has failed, you will need a replacement. We recommend OEM parts over aftermarket for water-handling components.

Part Name
Water Inlet ValveWPW10346771 · $30–$55

Repair vs. Replace Calculator

Appliance Age (Years)7 Yrs
Labor Approach
Our Verdict
REPAIR
Estimated Cost: $43 (Parts) vs $700 (New Machine)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is F20 the same as LF on a Whirlpool washer?
Yes. F20 is an older designation for the same fault. Newer models display LF. The cause, diagnosis, and repair steps are identical regardless of which code appears.
My Whirlpool washer shows F20 but water is running fine in the rest of my house. What could it be?
The most likely cause is a clogged inlet valve screen. Good household pressure does not guarantee the screens are clear. Mineral deposits and sediment collect specifically in those small mesh filters over time. Remove and clean them before replacing the valve.

Related Whirlpool Washer Error Codes

Code: LFWhirlpool Washer LF Error Code: Long FillCode: LO FLWhirlpool Washer LO FL Error Code: Low Flow FaultCode: F8 E1Whirlpool Washer F8 E1 Error Code: Low Water LevelCode: F0 E7Whirlpool Washer F0 E7 Error Code: No Water DetectedCode: RESETHow to Reset a Whirlpool Washer

Same Fix on Other Brands

Maytag washerF20: Maytag Washer F20 Error Code

Same Fix Works on These Brands

Whirlpool shares the same hardware platform with these brands. The diagnosis and repair steps are identical.

Maytag washerMaytag Washer 5D Code: Too Many Suds (Fix It Fast)Maytag washerAll Maytag Washer Error Codes: Complete Lookup GuideMaytag washerHow to Reset a Maytag Washer (3 Methods That Work)Maytag washerMaytag Washer Troubleshooting: Fix 12 Common ProblemsMaytag washerMaytag Washer LOC Code: How to Unlock the ControlsMaytag washerMaytag Washer Not Draining? Here's What to Check

Models Known to Experience F20 Errors

This repair applies to most Whirlpool washers with this error code. Common model numbers include:

WTW4816FW, WTW5000DW, WTW4850HW, WTW6120HW

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 14, 2026